Golf Aid for Aligning Stance

ABSTRACT

The present application includes a training device configured to provide sensory feedback regarding the alignment and angle of a user with respect to a reference location. The training device includes a base unit and a sensory unit. The base unit is placed on the ground. A user is coupled to a sensory in communication with the base unit. The training device calculates the alignment and angle of the user with respect to the base unit and provides sensory feedback to the user to allow for correction.

BACKGROUND

1. Field of the Invention

The present application relates in general to golf training devices, in particular, to the determining the proper alignment and angle of a user in relation to a reference location.

2. Description of Related Art

A plurality of devices abound for teaching correct golf techniques. A skill to develop in golf is the ability to consistently strike a ball and be able to control accuracy and distance. Typically, devices focus on the swing of a player. For example, some devices attach restrictive apparatuses for locating the arms of a golfer during the swing motion. Additionally, others correct the posture of the golfer by teaching proper rotation and movement. In fact, the swinging motion of a golfer can be recorded using selectively located sensors across the body. Each of these type of devices generally work to address the quality of swing or range of motion of a golfer but fail to address the stance of the golfer in relation to the ball and the hole. Golfer's need to practice and master proper alignment with the hole to ensure the consistent stroke will be accurate.

Although great strides have been made in golf training devices, considerable shortcomings remain.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The novel features believed characteristic of the application are set forth in the appended claims. However, the application itself, as well as a preferred mode of use, and further objectives and advantages thereof, will best be understood by reference to the following detailed description when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a base unit in a training device according to the preferred embodiment of the present application;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a sensory unit according to the preferred embodiment of the present application;

FIG. 3 is an exploded view of the base unit of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a front view of a display assembly on the base unit of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the display assembly of FIG. 4;

FIG. 6 is a side view of the display assembly of FIG. 4;

FIG. 7 is an exploded view of the display assembly of FIG. 4;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a battery unit in the base unit of FIG. 1;

FIG. 9 is an exploded view of a first portion of the battery unit of FIG. 8;

FIG. 10 is an exploded view of a second portion of the battery unit of FIG. 8;

FIG. 11 an exploded view of a transducer and sensor board used with the battery unit of FIG. 8;

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of an indicator assembly in the base unit of FIG. 1;

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a central indicator used in the indicator assembly of FIG. 12;

FIG. 14 is an electrical block diagram between the base unit of FIG. 1 and the sensory unit of FIG. 2;

FIGS. 15 and 16 are representations of the operation of a baseline variant and an enhanced variant of the base unit of FIG. 1 in communication with the sensory unit of FIG. 2; and

FIGS. 17 and 18 are software block diagrams of the base unit of FIG. 1 and the sensory unit of FIG. 2.

While the system and method of the present application is susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiments thereof have been shown by way of example in the drawings and are herein described in detail. It should be understood, however, that the description herein of specific embodiments is not intended to limit the application to the particular embodiment disclosed, but on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the process of the present application as defined by the appended claims.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

Illustrative embodiments of the preferred embodiment are described below. In the interest of clarity, not all features of an actual implementation are described in this specification. It will of course be appreciated that in the development of any such actual embodiment, numerous implementation-specific decisions must be made to achieve the developer's specific goals, such as compliance with system-related and business-related constraints, which will vary from one implementation to another. Moreover, it will be appreciated that such a development effort might be complex and time-consuming but would nevertheless be a routine undertaking for those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

In the specification, reference may be made to the spatial relationships between various components and to the spatial orientation of various aspects of components as the devices are depicted in the attached drawings. However, as will be recognized by those skilled in the art after a complete reading of the present application, the devices, members, apparatuses, etc. described herein may be positioned in any desired orientation. Thus, the use of terms to describe a spatial relationship between various components or to describe the spatial orientation of aspects of such components should be understood to describe a relative relationship between the components or a spatial orientation of aspects of such components, respectively, as the device described herein may be oriented in any desired direction.

Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2 in the drawings, a training device 10 is illustrated. Training device 10 includes a base unit 13 (FIG. 1) configured to communicate with a sensory unit 15 (FIG. 2) to properly align the stance of a golfer with a reference location, such as a hole in a golf course for example. Base unit 13 houses hardware and software used to calculate the user's alignment with respect to base unit 13 as well as hardware and software used to display such alignment to the user. Both base unit 13 and sensory unit 15 emit wireless signals between each other for the purpose of calculating the alignment of the user with that of the reference location.

Base unit 13 includes a display assembly 17, an indicator assembly 19, and a battery unit 21. Base unit 13 is configured to provide sensory feedback to the user regarding user alignment and, in some embodiments, the translation of the user with respect to base unit 13. The sensory feedback may be performed through use of a display, visual indicators, audible indicators, and/or through physical indicators. Physical indicators may refer to notifications that are communicated to the user through the sensory function of touch. A user is able to correct such alignment and receive relatively instantaneous feedback of the adjusted alignment. Both display assembly 17 and indicator assembly 19 are configured to provide sensory feedback to the user.

Base unit 13 is configured to be transportable by the user form location to location. In the preferred embodiment, unit 13 is used to assist a user properly align themselves with a hole on a golf course when approaching the ball. Therefore, unit 13 is sized to be accessible and carried within a conventional golf bag. Unit 13 has an elongated shape with a singular bulbous end (display assembly 17). For example, the overall length of unit 13 can be 34-36 inches, similar to that of a typical golf club. Additionally, the diameter of a central portion (indicator assembly 19) of unit 13 may be anywhere from 0.75 inches to 1.25 inches. Unit 13 is configured to maintain a center of gravity approximate to its dimensional center. This is to ease handling of unit 13 into and out of a golf bag or other transportation carrying case.

While not in a transportation carrying case, unit 13 is configured to rest in contact with the ground and aligned to a reference location. Display assembly 17 and/or external protrusions act to stabilize unit 13 on the ground. Such external protrusions may be integral to the housing 29 of unit 13. Other embodiments may use interchangeable or deployable protrusions, such as legs for example. Unit 13 may also rest on an exterior surface being elevated to some degree from the surface of the ground in alternative embodiments.

Sensory unit 15 includes a battery unit 23, electronics 25 (hardware and software), and one or more sensors/emitters 27. Electronics 25 regulate the operations of sensory unit 15. Sensory unit 15 is configured to transmit position data of the user in relation to base unit 13. Unit 15 selectively emits/transmits signals from sensors 27 to base unit 13. Sensors 27 are ultrasonic transducers in the preferred embodiment, however, it is understood that sensors 27 may be other wireless types of emitters suitable for wireless communication. Sensors 27 are coupled to portions of the body of the user in the preferred embodiment. For example, sensory unit 15 may be configured as a belt as seen in FIG. 1, wherein sensors 27 are approximate opposing ends of the hips of the user. Sensory unit 15 is adjustable to suit the size of the user. For example, where unit 15 is a belt, the belt size may be adjustable (i.e. 24-28 inches).

Although wireless communication has been described as the preferred use between base unit 13 and sensory unit 15, it is understood that other embodiments may use a direct wired communication. Additionally, although specific dimensions have been disclosed, it is understood that unit 13 is not limited to those specific dimensions. It is understood that unit 13 may be used in other applications outside of golf, and as such, dimensioning of unit 13 may vary in accordance with each application.

Referring now also to FIG. 3 in the drawings, an exploded view of base unit 13 is illustrated. As seen in FIG. 3, unit 13 also includes a housing 29 configured to surround portions of battery unit 21 and indicator assembly 19. Housing 29 is tubular in nature. Battery unit 21 is coupled to housing 29 on an end opposite display assembly 17. Within housing 29 is a locating bar 31. Bar 31 provides internal support and areas of attachment for various assemblies of unit 13. Additionally, bar 31 provides rigidity and weight. Bar 31 can be used to adjust the center of gravity of unit 13 in light of the assemblies coupled to housing 29.

Referring now also to FIGS. 4-7 of the drawings, display assembly 17 is illustrated. Display assembly 17 includes a two-piece display compartment/housing 33, having an upper compartment 33 a and a lower compartment 33 b. Coupled to upper compartment 33 a is a display 35 and a button assembly 37. Display 35 is inset within upper compartment 33 a and angled in a relatively upward angle toward the user while unit 13 is resting on a surface. Unit 13 is configured to display messages and/or notifications on display 35. When unit 13 is resting on the ground, display 35 is configured to project messages sufficient for the user to read and/or identify. In the preferred embodiment, display 35 is viewable without backlight. Display 35 is configured to mount directly to a PCB without an additional connector. As seen in the figures, display 35 is an LCD (liquid crystal display). It is understood that other types of displays are contemplated and considered viable alternatives.

Like unto display 35, button assembly 37 is inset into housing 31. The inset provides an aesthetic appeal. Button assembly 37 is configured to turn on and/or turn off base unit 13. In the preferred embodiment, base unit 13 is configured to have no true “off” setting, relying on a sleep mode or standby setting. In this configuration, button assembly 37 is used to awaken base unit from sleep mode. This allows base unit 13 to avoid power sequencing required between on and off states. In alternative configurations having an “off” state, base unit 13 is configured such that in the event unit 13 is not turned off, unit 13 will enter into a low-power mode (sleep mode). In either type of configuration, with an “off” or without and “off”, base unit 13 is configured to use a time delay function to switch between full power to sleep mode. For example, display assembly 17 may switch to sleep mode after 10 min. In some embodiments, a user is able to adjust the time delay function duration.

As seen in particular with FIG. 7, display assembly 17 also includes a sensor board 39 a. Sensor board 39 a is housed within display compartment 33. Sensor board 39 a is used in conjunction with a second sensor board for receiving and/or transmitting signals to and from sensory unit 15. It is understood that other electronic equipment may be included within display compartment 33 to assist in the electronic functions and calculations of unit 13. Such electronics may be associate within display 35, sensor board 39 a, and/or button assembly 37.

As seen in FIG. 6, display compartment 33 has a relatively triangular shape. Bottom portions of display compartment 33 act as legs, elevating housing 29. It is understood that housing 29 may include further legs at an end adjacent battery unit 21. Such additional legs may be interchangeable and/or deployable.

Referring now also to FIGS. 8-11 in the drawings, battery unit 21 is illustrated. Battery unit 21 is configured to house and store a power source used to power base unit 13. An example of a power source is a battery. Battery unit 21 is configured to accept conventional off-the-shelf batteries (one time use and/or rechargeable). Other types of batteries are possible. Battery unit 21 is capable of providing 550 mV of power which is sufficient to generate at least 600 two-minute uses. Furthermore, battery unit is configured to provide sufficient power in sleep mode to last at least one year. It is understood that modifications to the size and types of batteries used in battery unit 21 may be made to affect the duration, power level, and/or the number of uses. Such values are considered exemplary and are in no way limiting.

Battery unit 21 includes a battery compartment 41 having an upper compartment 41 a and a lower compartment 41 b. Upper and lower compartments 41 a, 41 b are combined to house the internal parts of battery unit 21. Battery unit 21 further includes a cap 43, battery contacts 45, and a seal 47. Seal 47 is located adjacent cap 43 within a groove 49 on compartment 41. Seal 47 is configured to seal against compartment 41 and an internal surface of housing 29. Seal provides a barrier to prevent foreign substances external to housing 29 from entering inside housing 29. For example: water, dirt, grass, dust and so forth.

Cap 43 threadedly couples to an end of compartment 41, being secured by interference fit. Compartment 41 houses one or more batteries. Other types of connections are contemplated. Cap 43 is configured to enclose the interior of compartment 41 from foreign substances. Battery contacts 45 are adjacent cap 43. Batteries are interchangeable. Additionally, other embodiments may include the ability to optionally plug-in base unit 13 to an AC-to-DC power supply.

Battery unit 21 also includes a second sensor board 39 b coupled to an end opposite cap 43. Sensor board 39 b is configured to operate with sensor board 39 a. Referring now also to FIG. 11, an exploded view of sensor board 39 b is illustrated. Sensor board 39 a and 39 b are configured to receive a sensor 51 a, 51 b respectively. Description of sensor 51 b will apply to that of sensor 51 a. Sensor 51 b is a transducer in the preferred embodiment and is external to housing 29. Sensor 51 b is inserted through aperture 53 in housing 29 and coupled to sensor board 39 b via a sensor socket 55 b. A similar aperture 53 a is illustrated in FIG. 4. Sensor 51 b is potted in place to provide for weather sealing. Sensor 51 a and 51 b are located adjacent to opposing ends of housing 29. The locations of sensors 51 a and 51 b assist in calculating the alignment of the user with base unit 13. It is preferred that sensors 51 a, 51 b, and 27 are bidirectional transducers to both receive and transmit a signal.

Referring now also to FIGS. 12 and 13 in the drawings, indicator assembly 19 is illustrated. Indicator assembly 19 is configured to provide sensory data to the user with respect to the user's alignment with base unit 13. In the preferred embodiment, indicator assembly 19 includes an LED board 57 having a total of eleven separate LED lights. Board 57 provides the primary user interface in training device 10. The light in the center is termed the center light 59. The remaining lights are outboard lights 61. In the preferred embodiment, center light is colored a distinct color (i.e. green) and is used to indicate a parallel alignment of the user with base unit 13. Outboard lights 61 are spaced equally on opposing sides of center light 59. Outboard lights 61 are colored differently (i.e. red) from that of center light 59 and are used to show the degree to which the user is out of alignment with base unit 13. By having outboard lights 61 arranged on opposing sides of center light 59, an incorrect alignment in either direction will be indicated to the user.

It is understood that the colors disclosed are in no way limiting and serve as exemplary color choices. Additionally, other embodiments may use one or more LEDs 59, 61 different from that specified above. Likewise, it is understood that LED lighting is only one type of indicator that may be used to notify the user of alignment. Device 10 may use any type of lighting device in assembly 19. Any indicator may be used providing such indicator is able to provide an indication when the user is aligned with base unit 13 and can indicate the degree to which the user is out of alignment.

Board 57 is coupled to a support 63 via one or more fasteners 67. Support 63 includes a channel 69 to house bar 31. Additionally, support 63 includes a socket to house a central indicator. A central indicator may be a laser 65. Laser 65 is configured to produce a beam 71 perpendicular to the central axis of housing 29. User is able to center about beam 71. Beam 71 is configured to be visible in sunlight and not to be harmful to the eyes of the user. Additionally, beam 71 is configured to projected away from base unit 13 a selected distance, for example, 10 feet to allow sufficient room for the user to approach the ball.

Some additional features of base unit 13 are as follows. Unit 13 can be configured to have a debugging interface that contains the processor programming pins and serial port. Although it is not intended for the user to be able to debug potential problems, it is contemplated that such a feature is possible. Additionally, unit 13 and unit 15 are both designed such that no active cooling is required and are comfortable to touch during normal operations. Furthermore, indicator assembly 19 is configured to indicate “low battery” state and an “active” state of device 10. Furthermore, assembly 19 is configured to notify the user concerning the connectivity between unit 13 and unit 15. If unit 13 is searching for unit 15 (no signals identified from unit 15), an activity light may blink at a slow rate. If the activity light blinks at a fast rate, then a user is notified that only a partial signal from unit 15 is received. If signals from both sensors 27 on unit 15 are received, then the activity light may be solid.

Referring back to FIG. 2, sensory unit 15 is configured to transmit position data related to the user to base unit 13. Sensors 27 are preferably bidirectional transducers that receive and emit ultrasonic signals. It is contemplated that other types of sensors may be used. Sensors 27 are located on the front of a user, preferably on opposing sides of the user. A distance of eight inches is preferred between each sensor 27, however, it is not required.

Unit 15 further includes a battery unit and electronics 25. Battery unit 25 stores one or more batteries used to power the electronics and sensors within unit 15. Battery unit 25 is similar to that of battery unit 21 in the types of batteries and the optional ability of a plug-in feature. Electronics 25 are in communication with battery unit 25 for receiving power and for operating sensors 27. Electronics 25 includes hardware and software to automatically communicate with base unit 13. A power button is included with unit 15. The features and limitations of power button 73 are similar to that of button assembly 37.

Referring now also to FIG. 14, an electrical block diagram 75 between unit 13 and unit 15 is illustrated. Unit 13 and unit 15 communicate between each other with ultrasonic pulses in the preferred embodiment. Each unit 13, 15 is powered by independent power sources 21, 23. FIG. 14 illustrates a basic electrical block diagram for base unit 13 in communication with sensory unit 15.

Signals transmitted and received between units 13 and 15 are processed within each unit 13 and 15. Teaching device 10 uses one or more algorithms located in electronics 25 and/or the electronics of base unit 13 to process and communicate data. In the preferred embodiment, one of two algorithms may be used: a baseline variant and/or an enhanced variant. The baseline variant is capable of resolving user alignment when the user is centered about the base unit 13. The enhanced variant enables training device 10 to resolve both the alignment of the user and the translation of the user off of the central indicator. Training device includes the baseline variant but may also optionally include the enhanced variant. A user may be able to selectively switch between variants in alternative embodiments. It is understood that training device 10 has the ability to adapt to various types of stances depending on the type of swing a user needs to make (i.e. where a stance needs to be more open).

Referring now also to FIGS. 15 and 16 in the drawings, illustrated representations of the operation of the baseline variant and the enhanced variant are shown. FIG. 14 illustrates the operation of the baseline variant. First a first sensor 27 a (similar to that of sensors 27) emits an ultrasonic pulse to base unit 13. Second, a second sensor 27 b emits an ultrasonic pulse to base unit 13. Thirdly, base unit process the positional data from sensors 27 a, 27 b to compute the alignment of the user. Note that the user 77 is centered about center indicator, beam 71.

As seen in FIG. 16, the operation of the enhanced variant is illustrated. First, unit 13 sends a signal to unit 15. Second, unit 15 detects the signal from unit 13 and then sends return ultrasonic pulse from first sensor 27 a to base unit 13. Third, second sensor 27 b emits an ultrasonic pulse to base unit 13 after a preselected time delay. Fourth, base unit 13 processes the data from sensors 27 a, 27 b to compute the alignment and the angle of user 77. The ultrasonic pulses from sensors 27 a and 27 b are received by both sensors 51 a, 51 b.

Referring now also to FIGS. 17 and 18 in the drawings, software block diagrams of base unit 13 (FIG. 17) and sensory unit 15 (FIG. 18) are illustrated. Software in base unit 13 is responsible for sensing and estimating the alignment of user 77 and controlling the indicators. Diagram 81 represents the software block diagram for unit 13. All elements are part of the baseline software variant except as noted herein. Elements along row 83 pertain to external interfaces. Diagram 85 represents the software block diagram for unit 15. All elements are part of the baseline software variant except as noted herein. Elements along row 87 pertain to external interfaces. Furthermore, both “carrier timer” and “sample timer” in diagrams 81 and 85 apply to the category of a fast timer ISR.

Some additional features to note are the ability of training device 10 to indicate the distance to the reference location. Additionally, training device 10 may also be configured to notify the user of environmental weather conditions, notably: temperature, wind speed, and humidity for example. Such notifications may be made by the display assembly 17. Furthermore, training device 10 may be configured to notify the user of distance to the reference location and/or distance to the hole.

In order to orient the stance of a user to the reference location, base unit 13 needs to be aligned with a selected reference location. The user is then to orient himself/herself with base unit 13. Preferably a user may stand anywhere between 4 and 10 feet from base unit 13. Base unit 13 and sensory unit 15 communicate via ultrasonic signals in either a baseline variant or an enhanced variant. Position data of the user is calculated/processed and training device indicates to the user the relative alignment with the base unit 13. The process of calculating the alignment and/or angle or translation is preferably done continuously, such that a user may recognize misalignments and correct them in real time and have instantaneous feedback until a proper alignment is achieved.

The present application provides at least the following significant advantages, including: (1) the ability to correctly align a user's body with a reference location; (2) continuous real time feedback concerning alignment of the user; (3) portability of the training device; and (4) the configuration of the training device is able to be used without interfering with a user's golf swing

The particular embodiments disclosed above are illustrative only, as the application may be modified and practiced in different but equivalent manners apparent to those skilled in the art having the benefit of the teachings herein. It is therefore evident that the particular embodiments disclosed above may be altered or modified, and all such variations are considered within the scope and spirit of the application. Accordingly, the protection sought herein is as set forth in the description. It is apparent that an application with significant advantages has been described and illustrated. Although the present application is shown in a limited number of forms, it is not limited to just these forms, but is amenable to various changes and modifications without departing from the spirit thereof. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A training device, comprising: a base unit configured to provide sensory feedback to a user, the base unit being aligned with a reference location; and a sensory unit configured to transmit position data of a user in relation to the base unit, the sensory unit being in communication with the base unit; wherein the sensory feedback indicates the alignment of the user with respect to the reference location.
 2. The training device of claim 1, wherein the base unit is configured to provide a central indicator to center the user about the base unit.
 3. The training device of claim 1, wherein the alignment of the user is indicated on the base unit as the user is centered about the base unit.
 4. The training device of claim 1, wherein the base unit is configured to provide the sensory feedback as the user translates along the length of the base unit.
 5. The training device of claim 1, wherein the sensory feedback is in the form of at least one of a visual notification, an audible notification, or a physical notification to the user.
 6. The training device of claim 5, wherein the central indicator is a laser.
 7. The training device of claim 1, wherein the sensory unit is coupled to the user.
 8. The training device of claim 1, wherein communication between the base unit and the sensory unit is through ultrasonic signals.
 9. The training device of claim 8, wherein the ultrasonic signals are pulsated between the base unit and the sensory unit.
 10. The training device of claim 1, further comprising: a display assembly coupled to the base unit, the display assembly is configured to provide the user with at least one of visual messages and audible messages.
 11. The training device of claim 1, wherein the base unit is configured to calculate the distance to the reference location.
 12. The training device of claim 1, wherein the base unit is configured to display environmental conditions in a display assembly.
 13. A method of orienting the stance of a user to a reference location, comprising: aligning a base unit with respect to a reference location; orienting a user adjacent the base unit, the user in communication with a sensory unit; transmitting the position data between the sensory unit and the base unit; calculating the alignment of the user; and indicating the alignment of the user with respect to the base unit and the reference location, the user being able to correct the alignment.
 14. The method of claim 13, wherein the alignment of the user is continuously calculated and indicated as the user adjusts position.
 15. The method of claim 13, wherein the position data is transmitted via a pulsating signal.
 16. The method of claim 13, wherein calculating the alignment of the user is performed by transmitting a plurality of signals from the sensory unit to the base unit, the plurality of signals represent the position of selected portions of the user.
 17. The method of claim 16, wherein the user is aligned with a central indicator.
 18. The method of claim 13, wherein calculating the alignment of the user is performed by: sending a signal from the base unit to the sensory unit; emitting a plurality of signals from the sensory unit, the plurality of signals originating from a first sensor and a second sensor, the plurality of signals representing the positional data of selected portions from the user; and receiving the plurality of signals in the base unit.
 19. The method of claim 18, wherein the base unit calculates the alignment of the user and the angle of the user with respect to the base unit.
 20. The method of claim 13, wherein the base unit indicates the alignment of the user by at least one of a visual notification, an audible notification, or a physical notification to the user. 